A light and creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta made with simple ingredients in 30 minutes. Packed with protein and flavor for a healthier comfort meal.
1 lb boneless chicken (breasts or thighs), chopped
8 oz whole wheat or protein pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Reserved pasta water as needed
Cook pasta; reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté in oil until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute.
Add milk and broth. Simmer and stir in Parmesan until smooth.
Add chicken and pasta. Toss to coat, using pasta water to thin if needed.
Serve warm with parsley and optional chili flakes.
Use gluten-free pasta and dairy-free milk for dietary swaps. Add lemon or veggies for variation.